Beginning in the early 20th century, abstract art became a leading style of modernism. Rather than portray the world in a way that represented reality, as had been the dominating style of Western art in the previous centuries, abstract paintings, prints and sculptures are marked by a shift to geometric forms, gestural shapes and experimentation with color to express ideas, subject matter and scenes.
Although abstract art flourished in the early 1900s, propelled by movements like Fauvism and Cubism, it was rooted in the 19th century. In the 1840s, J.M.W. Turner emphasized light and motion for atmospheric paintings in which concrete details were blurred, and Paul Cézanne challenged traditional expectations of perspective in the 1890s.
Some of the earliest abstract artists — Wassily Kandinsky and Hilma af Klint — expanded on these breakthroughs while using vivid colors and forms to channel spiritual concepts. Painter Piet Mondrian, a Dutch pioneer of the art movement, explored geometric abstraction partly owing to his belief in Theosophy, which is grounded in a search for higher spiritual truths and embraces philosophers of the Renaissance period and medieval mystics. Black Square, a daringly simple 1913 work by Russian artist Kazimir Malevich, was a watershed statement on creating art that was free “from the dead weight of the real world,” as he later wrote.
Surrealism in the 1920s, led by artists such as Salvador Dalí, Meret Oppenheim and others, saw painters creating abstract pieces in order to connect to the subconscious. When Abstract Expressionism emerged in New York during the mid-20th century, it similarly centered on the process of creation, in which Helen Frankenthaler’s expressive “soak-stain” technique, Jackson Pollock’s drips of paint, and Mark Rothko’s planes of color were a radical new type of abstraction.
Conceptual art, Pop art, Hard-Edge painting and many other movements offered fresh approaches to abstraction that continued into the 21st century, with major contemporary artists now exploring it, including Anish Kapoor, Mark Bradford, El Anatsui and Julie Mehretu.
Find original abstract paintings, sculptures, prints and other art on 1stDibs.
Cloud Cover on an Otherwise Sunny Day, Abstract Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Soft colors shape a nonrepresentational landscape, where clouds drift gently above a green field. Black paint peeks through layered hues, and fine scratches cre...
Oil
Intent, Jai Guru Dev
Located in Dallas, TX
acrylic & oil on canvas
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Loving Life Lilly Muth - Contemporary geometric abstraction - Oil Painting
Located in DE
Lilly Muth's geometric abstractions are colourful works full figures that of space such as the distance, shape, size, and relative position of figures. Her use of colour is bold yet ...
Canvas, Oil
Abstract Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Light', c. 2000 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Paper, Watercolor
$551Sale Price|20% Off
Abstract Expressionist Painting American Late 1970's Mid Century Pink Blue White
Located in Buffalo, NY
Mid Century Modern, American Abstract Expressionist Painting on artist board. This wonderful work combines delicate shades of pink and blue and comes house in a contemporary natural...
Masonite, Acrylic
#232, Abstract, Photography, Painting, Expressionism
Located in München, BY
Unique piece in this size More sizes and an Essay from Lyle Rexer about this series on request. Joachim Schmeisser’s work rescues photography from the centuries-old straightjacket ...
Pigment
$4,426
Contemporary Minimalist Earth Blue Abstract Painting Canvas Tete Alurralde
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
At Escat Gallery we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of trust and professionalism for our collectors. Every artwork in our collection comes with a Certificate of Au...
Cotton Canvas, Acrylic, Pigment
The Pollinator Caretaker
Located in Dallas, TX
acrylic on canvas
Canvas, Acrylic
$590
Alena Kalen Modern Geometric Original Abstract Oil Painting Cubist Reverie” COA
Located in Palm Coast, FL
“Cubist Reverie” is an original abstract composition by contemporary American artist Alena Kalen, executed in oil and mixed media on canvas. The work explores the relationship betwee...
Mixed Media, Oil
$7,895
Contemplation and Introspection, colourful, Joan Mitchell, expressionism, bold
Located in Jönköping, SE
This piece is part of my new collection titled "Contemplation and Introspection." In this series, I explore the insightful relationship between nature and the human experience, delvi...
Raw Linen, Acrylic
"Japanese Spring" very large format, floral diptych on linen canvas
Located in Zofingen, AG
Title: Japanese Spring *Diptych – 2 panels, each 152 x 56 x 4 cm (60 x 22 x 1.6 inches) Medium: Acrylic on linen canvas “Flowers do not try to become something else. They simply unf...
Canvas, Acrylic
#176 Abstract, Photography, Painting, Expressionism
Located in München, BY
Unique piece in this size More sizes and an Essay from Lyle Rexer about this series on request. Joachim Schmeisser’s work rescues photography from the centuries-old straightjacket ...
Pigment
$1,883Sale Price|20% Off
Abstract 2305
Located in Zofingen, AG
Abstract 2305 - is original, authentic, and personally signed by the artist. Created using acrylic on canvas, a clear, gloss coating protects your cherished fine art investment from ...
Acrylic
$387Sale Price|20% Off
Impressionst Oil Painting French Painting Thick Impasto Abstract
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Maggy Clarysse (1931-2011) Oil on board, unframed 11.9 x 9 inches Signed Initials ...
Oil
Counting the Days - Tranquil Colorful Blue and Brown Abstract Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The original artworks by Canadian artist Julie Naima feature visually appealing abstract compositions with organic shapes that evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity. The harmonious interplay of a few carefully selected colors, and their varied shades, create a nuanced visual experience that is both calming and invigorating. Crafted in a contemporary and modern style, her paintings are infused with a touch of refinement and artistic flair. The use of organic shapes creates a sense of natural flow and movement, while the balanced color palette adds a level of sophistication to the overall design. This one-of-a-kind abstract painting on canvas measures 48 inches in height and 40 inches in width. The sides of the artwork are thoughtfully painted in a complementary shade of blue, eliminating the need for framing and creating a cohesive, finished look. The painting is wired and ready to hang, making it a hassle-free addition to any wall. It's signed by the artist on both the side and back, adding an extra touch of authenticity and value. Free delivery is available for those in the local Los Angeles area, and affordable worldwide shipping is available for US and international art collectors. A certificate of authenticity issued by the art gallery is included with the artwork, ensuring that the piece is an authentic work of art from Julie Naima. Julie Naima is an accomplished artist originally from Montreal, Canada, who currently resides in a tranquil rural town, removed from the frenetic pace of city life. Her creative process is characterized by experimentation, having explored various techniques and media, such as fluid paints, flowy inks, epoxy resin, collage, and mixed media. However, Naima has since returned to exclusively working with acrylics on canvas, with a particular focus on color. Through this dedication, Naima has discovered that colorful abstract art, imbued with positive emotions and good intentions, is what resonates most with her. Naima's impressive body of work can be found in many private collections across Canada, Europe, Australia, and the United States, attesting to the universality of her artistic vision. Her unique use of color and form imbues her abstract works with a sense of energy and dynamism, evoking a wide range of emotions in viewers. REPRESENTATION: Artspace Warehouse, Los Angeles, USA EXHIBITIONS 2023 Artspace Warehouse, Los Angeles, CA 2022 ARTWRK Gallery, Canada Square Foot Show, Online 2020 Solo Show, Forena Spa, St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Canada Solo Show, Crystal Hotel...
Canvas, Acrylic
Evening in Silence, Abstract Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Soft greens, blues, and earthy tones suggest an abstract river nestled among dense foliage. The water reflects the overcast sky, creating a sense of depth and t...
Oil
Time with Myself
Located in Zofingen, AG
This artwork is part of the series Return to Herself, dedicated to a woman and her body as a place of return to oneself, to an inner rhythm, rest, and silence. It explores a state in...
Canvas, Acrylic
Finding Balance - Tranquil Colorful Abstract Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The original artworks by Canadian artist Julie Naima feature visually appealing abstract compositions with organic shapes that evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity. The harmonious interplay of a few carefully selected colors, and their varied shades, create a nuanced visual experience that is both calming and invigorating. Crafted in a contemporary and modern style, her paintings are infused with a touch of refinement and artistic flair. The use of organic shapes creates a sense of natural flow and movement, while the balanced color palette adds a level of sophistication to the overall design. This one-of-a-kind abstract painting on canvas measures 48 inches in height and 40 inches in width. The sides of the artwork are thoughtfully painted in a complementary shade of blue, eliminating the need for framing and creating a cohesive, finished look. The painting is wired and ready to hang, making it a hassle-free addition to any wall. It's signed by the artist on both the side and back, adding an extra touch of authenticity and value. Free delivery is available for those in the local Los Angeles area, and affordable worldwide shipping is available for US and international art collectors. A certificate of authenticity issued by the art gallery is included with the artwork, ensuring that the piece is an authentic work of art from Julie Naima. Julie Naima is an accomplished artist originally from Montreal, Canada, who currently resides in a tranquil rural town, removed from the frenetic pace of city life. Her creative process is characterized by experimentation, having explored various techniques and media, such as fluid paints, flowy inks, epoxy resin, collage, and mixed media. However, Naima has since returned to exclusively working with acrylics on canvas, with a particular focus on color. Through this dedication, Naima has discovered that colorful abstract art, imbued with positive emotions and good intentions, is what resonates most with her. Naima's impressive body of work can be found in many private collections across Canada, Europe, Australia, and the United States, attesting to the universality of her artistic vision. Her unique use of color and form imbues her abstract works with a sense of energy and dynamism, evoking a wide range of emotions in viewers. REPRESENTATION: Artspace Warehouse, Los Angeles, USA EXHIBITIONS 2023 Artspace Warehouse, Los Angeles, CA 2022 ARTWRK Gallery, Canada Square Foot Show, Online 2020 Solo Show, Forena Spa, St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Canada Solo Show, Crystal Hotel...
Canvas, Acrylic
$6,004
Contemporary New Abstract Grey Dots Colors Artist Christina Gschwantner
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
At Escat Gallery we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of trust and professionalism for our collectors. Every artwork in our collection comes with a Certificate of Au...
Cotton Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Lavender Haze
Located in New York, NY
Signed and dated by artist on verso
Foil
Vintage American Abstract Expressionist Framed Modernist MCM Oil Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
Vintage American modernist abstract oil painting. Oil on board. Framed. Measuring: 24 by 31 inches overall, and 18 by 26 painting alone. In excellent original condition. Nicely fram...
Oil, Board
$2,215Sale Price|20% Off
Huge French Abstract Painting Brown Beige Yellow Ochre colors, signed
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Artist/ School: French abstract School, late 20th century/ early 21st century, inscribed initials MD Title: Brown, yellow, beige abstract composition painted on a very large scale. ...
Oil, Canvas
$800
"My Pink Diamond Heart" Pink and White Pop Art Oil Painting with Floater Frame
By Cindy Shaoul
Located in New York, NY
Motivated by bold color and fast brushwork, we are moved by the simplicity and thick textured oil paints in these works. Shaoul’s “My Heart Collection” is a vibrant and energetic dis...
Canvas, Glass, Oil
Emerald mosaic. 3D textured.
Located in Zofingen, AG
The composition is created on canvas using gypsum plaster and epoxy resin. The work is built on a contrast between structure and gloss, geometry and fluidity. The upper part of the ...
Mixed Media, Canvas
$1,200
Low Fog
By Ruth Armer
Located in San Francisco, CA
This artwork titled "Low Fog" 1939 is an oil painting on canvas board by noted California artist Ruth Armer, 1896-1977. It is signed at the lower right corn...
Oil
Paul Manes - Untitled Landscape, Painting 2024
By Paul Manes
Located in Stamford, CT
Paul Manes was born May 4, 1948, in Austin, Texas. He began his professional career in New York City in the early 1980s. His art has been widely exhibited in America and Europe and h...
Canvas, Paint, Oil
$109Sale Price|20% Off
French Expressionist Abstract Original Painting Artists Studio Provenance
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Abstract Expressionist Composition by Jacques COULAIS (1955-2011) gouache painting on paper/ card unframed: 12.75 x 9.75 inches condition: excellent provenance: all the paintings we ...
Oil
"Golden Nectar". Abstract large expressionist, Japandi, Wabi-Sabi, Shabby Chic
Located in Oslo, NO
The large, horizontal format abstraction "Golden Nectar" has a deep philosophical meaning. If a person is surrounded by not the most pleasant people, when various difficult events ha...
Acrylic
$990
Pink and Blue Sea Diptych, Unique Monotype Painting of Fish Patterns, Art Brut
Located in Barcelona, ES
This series by Enric Servera explores the relationship of humans to salt and seawater. The intention of these works is to submerge us into the sea, a salty treasure that surrounds us...
Paper, Acrylic, Monotype
$1,200Sale Price|70% Off
Figure Sur Rouge (Figure on Red) /// Contemporary French Painting Minimalism Art
Located in Saint Augustine, FL
Artist: Pierre Marie Brisson (French, 1955-) Title: "Figure Sur Rouge (Figure on Red)" *Signed by Brisson lower right. It is also signed and dated on verso Year: 1983 Medium: Origina...
Paint, Oil, Handmade Paper, Rag Paper, Mixed Media
Liminal: Abstract Painting, Oil on Wood, 2010s, New, 36x36
By Ericka Wolf
Located in SEATTLE, WA
Liminal by Ericka Wolf is an abstract oil painting on wood that features a smooth, atmospheric gradient, moving from deep blue-gray at the top through pale light tones into warm sand...
Wood, Oil
Abstract Composition 1, '60s - oil paint, 43x56 cm., framed
Located in Nice, FR
Born in Leningrad (now Saint-Petersbourg, Russia) in 1937, Catherine Zoubtchenko lives in France since 1945. She was a student of the painter André Lanskoy, with whom she later share...
Oil
$1,435
Partition coloree, Abstract Library, oil paint, Expressionism, Contemporary art
Located in LANGRUNE-SUR-MER, FR
Partition colorée Oil on canvas, 2026 Unframed: 40 x 40 cm (15.7 x 15.7 in) Framed: 47 x 47 cm (18.5 x 18.5 in) Floater frame available in natural wood or oak or black Signed lower ...
Oil
$29,500
"Seduction Series" 4SF9 Abstract, Figurative Painting, 21st Century, Acrylic
By Roger König
Located in Dessau-Rosslau, Sachsen Anhalt
Artist: Roger König b. Dessau, Germany (1968) Master student of Kurt Schönburg, HWK Halle, Germany. König combines modern painting with acrylic with old techniques and in this way, h...
Clay, Acrylic
$200Sale Price|50% Off
#38 After the Rains
Located in Wilton Manors, FL
Douglas M. Olsen (b. 1960). #38, After the Rains, 1980. Watercolor on rag paper, 22 x 22 inches. Signed lower margin and on verso.
Watercolor, Rag Paper
$1,551Sale Price|20% Off
Circus Figure Holding Hoop In Vibrant Abstract French 20th Century Painting
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Abstract Expressionist Composition signed by Gilbert Pelissier (French born 1924) oil painting on canvas, unframed dated 87' canvas size: 45.5 x 35 inches Inscribed verso condition: ...
Canvas, Oil
Pratyabhigyan, Acrylic on Canvas by Contemporary Indian Artist "In Stock"
By Amit Kalla
Located in Kolkata, West Bengal
Amit Kalla - Pratyabhigyan - 36 x 72 inches (unframed size) Acrylic on Canvas, 2021 ** Free Shipment ...... will be delivered in rolled form. Style : Kalla’s work can be represented...
Canvas, Acrylic
Sunflower
Located in New York, NY
Signed and dated by artist on verso
Foil
Gold line, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas
By Jakob Gold
Located in Yardley, PA
Artist: Jakob Gold Work: Original Acrylic Painting, Handmade Artwork, One of a Kind Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Style: Abstract Art Unframed, Stretched on Wooden Bar, Gallery Wrapped, ...
Acrylic
Composite #6, Abstract Geometric Shapes, Mid-20th Century
Located in Beachwood, OH
Charles Fodor (American, 20th Century) Composite #6, 1969 Oil on canvas Signed, dated and titled verso 27.5 x 20 inches 29 x 21.5 inches, framed
Oil
Summer Sheep By Natalie Bird
Located in Deddington, GB
original Oil on board Image size: H:14 cm x W:18 cm Sold Unframed Please note that insitu images are purely an indication of how a piece may look Oil on board
Oil, Board
Green Depth - Large Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas: 200x150cm.
Located in Zofingen, AG
Experience the captivating interplay of light, color, and texture with this original abstract painting. "Green Depth" is a visual metaphor for a positive and dynamic vision of life, ...
Oil, Acrylic
Summer Showers, Abstract Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Shades of blue and turquoise create an impression of pelting rain and splashing puddles on a summer's day. Subtle accents of orange add warmth to the scene, whi...
Oil
$275
Contemporary expressive still life floral painting on paper "Blooming Joy "
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
This contemporary expressive abstract floral painting, with a touch of Impressionism, was created by French artist Natalya Mougenot and is part of her ongoing series dedicated to sti...
Paper, Acrylic
Tropic Celebration - painting, acrylic on canvas
Located in Bloomfield, ON
"This contemporary abstract painting by Paul Fournier captures the turquoise-colored waters of the Caribbean. Paul Fournier is among the most significant painters in the Canadian ar...
Canvas, Acrylic
Wave - abstract painting, made in ultramarine blue, grey color
By Mila Akopova
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Interior design paintings. The work was done with alcohol ink in ultramarine blue and grey color on Yupo paper. The work is 11 by 14 inches in size, framed (gold or black) with a sty...
Paper, Ink
Original Abstract Textured Oil Painting by Alena Kalen "Totem" Framed, COA
Located in Palm Coast, FL
“Totem” is an original abstract composition by contemporary American artist Alena Kalen, executed in oil and mixed media on canvas. The work presents a symbolic, vertically structure...
Mixed Media, Oil
"Wabi-Sabi Fragments" colorful impressionistic art with flowers on linen canvas
Located in Zofingen, AG
“Wabi-Sabi Fragments” holds a moment that feels unfinished, yet complete in its own way. «Wabi-Sabi Fragments» is built on a single idea: that beauty lives precisely where things ar...
Canvas, Linen, Spray Paint, Acrylic
Always and Forever
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This black and white acrylic painting on paper is inspired by the mid-century masters. Framed in a vintage gold wood frame, wired and ready to hang Signed on the back - Ilana Greenb...
Acrylic
$3,817Sale Price|20% Off
Romans, Abstract library, oil and Collage on canvas, minimalism, textured
Located in LANGRUNE-SUR-MER, FR
to confront the arts, to merge them, to mix writing and brush, such is the challenge of the artist. Table of a library with collage of fabric allowing the painting to vibrate more. C...
Oil
$200Sale Price|60% Off
#135 (Abstract Expressionist painting)
Located in Wilton Manors, FL
Douglas M. Olsen (b. 1960). #135, 1982. Watercolor on rag paper, 22 x 30 inches. Signed lower margin and on verso.
Watercolor, Rag Paper
"Semiotic 91-C" Ida Kohlmeyer, Abstract, Colorful, Mixed Media
Located in New York, NY
Ida Kohlmeyer Semiotic 91-C, 1991 Signed and dated lower right Mixed media on canvas 78 x 52 3/4 inches Provenance The artist Arthur Roger Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana Private Co...
Canvas, Mixed Media
$960Sale Price|20% Off
May I have this dance?, Contemporary, emerald, monochromatic, dramatic painting
Located in Cumming, GA
“May I have this dance?” 24 x 24 inches is a one-of-a-kind original non-objective abstract painting by Juanita Bellavance. In this spontaneous expressive abstract piece, Juanita cre...
Canvas, Acrylic
"Moment of the Past 2", Abstract Oil Painting on Canvas, Framed, 2010+
Located in San Diego, CA
This is an original abstract oil on canvas painting by San Diego artist, Khalid Alkaaby. It's framed dimensions are 13.5"x13.5"x2". It comes framed. A certificate of authenticity wil...
Canvas, Oil
Autumn Beauty, Abstract Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Bold, contrasting colors surround the dominating layers of orange and yellow. Animated marks and stains add energy and texture to the composition. The joyful wa...
Oil
Vintage American Modernist Signed Abstract Expressionist Figural Oil Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
Vintage American modernist abstract expressionist figural painting. Oil on canvas. Framed. Signed.
Canvas, Oil
Large Abstract Israeli Tiberias Galilee Kinneret Oil Painting Elhanan Halpern
Located in Surfside, FL
Elhanan Halpern Abstract cityscape Northern Israel, Kinneret Lake, Galilee, Tiberias Hand signed lower left in Hebrew Bears label in Hebrew verso, handwritten English inscription. Ci...
Oil, Board
$950Sale Price|47% Off
Simple Life
Located in Kansas City, MO
Katherine Bello Title: Simple Life Oil and Oils stick on canvas Year: 2021 Dimensions: 20"x20"x1.5" Signed by hand Canvas on stretcher frame - ready...
Oil, Canvas, Oil Pastel
$1,255
Good Vibrations - Figurative Abstract Ocean Surfers Still Life Acrylic Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Kathleen Keifer's original artworks represent one of the most significant expressions of New California Realism. Keifer brings a fresh perspective to her colorful scenes of everyday ...
Canvas, Acrylic
Mid-Century Abstract Expressionist Gouache on Paper, Signed, 41x55 cm
By Joseph Levin
Located in Cotignac, FR
Mid-century abstract expressionist geometric gouache on paper by Russian artist Joseph Levin. Signed to the bottom right and presented in a black passepartout. This artwork is a str...
Paper, Watercolor, Gouache
The Italian-American’s 2020 abstract painting “The Hoe” personifies his “art of not knowing.”
In his current show at New York's Lehmann Maupin gallery, the Puerto Rican–born talent reveals new paintings with a semiautobiographical aspect.